Swimming: Full Stroke Swimming

Kick Dolphin Legs with or without a small flexible float. Hold the top of the float with two hands. Keep the feet together as you kick both legs in an undulating dolphin motion starting from the hips through to the toes. This drill will help condition your stomach as well as your legs.

The hips stay high to the water surface throughout the whole stroke cycle with undulating rhythum as the head and shoulders rise and fall in tune with the pattern of the stroke.

The butterfly technique is the most modern of all four swimming strokes. Developed from breaststroke, it has similarities as regards undulation and the dolphin type action that occurs. Undulation will occure when the head and upper body rises and falls in realtion to the kick, pull and breathing pattern. Develop a good streamline position by placing your face in the water before the hands enter at the front of the stroke. The hips are swept up to the water surface as the head and face drops down; At this point the arms are being swept forwards over the top of the water with the help of the second leg kick. There are always two leg kicks to every one arm pull within the full stroke cycle. Develop rhythm and timing rather than pure strength and power.

Kick Dolphin Legs whilst on your side. Stretch one arm down the pool above the head holding the top of a small float, keep the other arm by your side. Keep your feet together as you kick to opposite sides of the pool. This drill will help increase flexibility in your shoulders as well as condition the legs.